Be your brother’s keeper

‘BLOCK THE PAST OUT’: Minister of Education Tim Gopeesingh shakes the hand of Form Four pupil Anthony Jacob at Presentation College, San Fernando, while other pupils look on during the minister’s visit to the school yesterday.
—Photo: INNIS FRANCIS

Mark Fraser

BE your brother’s keeper.

This was the advice from Education Minister Dr Tim Gopeesingh to pupils of Presentation College, San Fernando yesterday.

Gopeesingh paid an impromptu visit to the school after attending a function at Naparima College, San Fernando.

The minister said the purpose of his visit was to meet with pupils, following the stabbing of one pupil by another on Monday.

Using former prime ministers Basdeo Panday and Patrick Manning as examples, Gopeesingh told pupils to remember their school had produced great persons in the country and its morals, values, ethics and discipline were no different from other schools.

“We all as young students have difficulties, but you are here to get your education and so grasp it. Stay strong, stay respectful, stay diligent, stay focused and grasp what Presentation College is offering you,” he said.

Gopeesingh told pupils they were all brothers and they need to protect and love each other.

He instructed the student population to join hands while saying a pledge.

He said pupils needed to “ block the past out” and to focus on the future and they will become a success.

Lenard Gervais, the school’s vice-head prefect, said his schoolmates were grateful for Gopeesingh’s words.

In a brief vote of thanks to Gopeesingh, Gervais said: “Thank you for reminding us about the brotherhood of Presentation College. Thank you for those inspiring words in this hard time for us.”